Ragnarok Online is truly one of the most popular and best known MMORPGs to come out of Korea. Its huge success has been responsible for the huge influx of MMOs from Asian shores into the US. Launched in 2001, the game continuous to captivate players from all parts of the world. Originally launched as a fee based game service; Korean developers has since offered this game for free thru special servers.

There really were no significant changes made on the game since its initial offering with upgrades coming in the way of patches. The games storyline and simple controls has made it a huge success among MMO gamers. Almost a decade after its initial release the game still continues to attract hardcore gamers and noobs alike.

The games graphics are certainly not as eye-pooping compared with what we see in newer MMORPGs today. The game shows its age with its 2D graphics, but for some players the games simpler graphics and interface makes it a lot easier on the eyes. The games environments were certainly groundbreaking during its day but the lack of details and sprites make them look “block like” by today’s standards. There is also not much in terms of detail even on the monsters. Sometimes simple changes in color or size are all that distinguishes them from each another.

One of the things which make Ragnarok Online standout from its early competition was the game’s great soundtrack. The music complimented every change in the environment and sets the games overall mood. But the games soundtracks were few and too short and just became too repetitive as the game went on.

All players start as novices with gender the only distinguishing factor between them. Although characters and classes may look similar to the untrained eye, a closer look would show what type of character and job class a player belongs to. Going thru the first levels is easy with little monsters offering resistance. Players are then ushered to choose their class upon reaching level 10.

There are six job classes available in the game, Thief, Archer, Acolyte, Mage, Merchant and Swordsman. Depending on what job a player chooses from, he is given a set of simple quests to accomplish and after successfully completing the tasks is awarded with a matching wardrobe and skill sets.

Skills available depend on what type of job a player chooses. Character build is quite linear and progressing to the second job level offers only a few choices. Players however could manipulate their stat builds to customize their characters. An example of this are knights whose builds could vary according to where you distribute your stat points. You could create different types of knights according to where you allocate stat points, defensive and quick healing knights would show them with high vitality stats and agility or fast attack knights would see their agility stats maxed out.

Ragnarok Online continues to command a fair amount of followers even after it has been out for almost a decade. It is a testament to the great playability and simplicity of the game. For beginners or those who wish to learn the basics of MMORPGs, Ragnarok Online easy interface could assist you in taking your first steps in the world of Role Playing Games. For seasoned professionals who wish to get back to their roots, RO could provide you that nostalgic journey to the early years of MMO gaming.